EP 2:15 Reinventing Yourself AfterMeth with Evan

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June 19, 2025 • 61 mins

Supplementary Study Guide: https://www.drdallasbragg.com/newsletters/blog/posts/reinvention

In this episode of The AfterMeth podcast, Dr. Dallas Bragg welcomes Evan Lunt, a chemistry professor and drag queen who completely reinvented his life after methamphetamine addiction. This conversation provides a practical roadmap for anyone looking to reclaim their identity and build a new life in recovery.

What You'll Learn:
The Power of Geographic Change:
• Why Evan chose treatment in a completely new city (Asheville, NC)
• How starting fresh with no connections can accelerate recovery
• The difference between running away from problems vs. strategic relocation
• Why "wherever you go, there you are" doesn't always apply

Building Community Intentionally:
• How meth provided instant community - and why that's a key need to address
• Forcing yourself into uncomfortable social situations (and why it works)
• The importance of "hitting the ground running" with job, friends, and purpose
• Why social interaction is a learned skill that requires practice

Leaning Into Discomfort:
• How discomfort became Evan's compass for growth
• Taking strategic breaks from triggering activities (drag, teaching, dating)
• Why bad sex was exactly what he needed in early recovery
• The importance of building resilience before taking on stress

Professional Recovery:
• Navigating a career in chemistry while recovering from meth addiction
• Taking a "step down" job (hardware store) to rebuild basic life skills
• When and how to return to high-stress professions
• Building responsibility gradually rather than rushing back

Drag Performance in Recovery:
• The reality of drug use in drag culture and nightlife scenes
• Transitioning from "messy queen" to professional performer
• Creating sober drag families and communities
• Finding your niche (brunch vs. nighttime shows)

Sexual Recovery and Relationships:
• Taking 18 months off from sex and dating
• How sex work during addiction complicated sexual identity
• Learning what you actually like vs. what addiction taught you
• The importance of bad sexual experiences in recovery

Connect with Evan:
• Instagram: @theonlysev